Retired cyclist Oscar Pereiro has sensationally claimed that some high profile footballers have used performance enhancing drugs throughout their careers.

Pereiro, winner of the 2006 Tour de France, spoke out after Lance Armstrong's admission that he used prohibited substances during his cycling career, with the Spaniard claiming that football is not immune to drug-related controversy.

The 35-year-old joined Spanish Segunda Division B side Coruxo in 2010 after retiring from cycling, scoring two goals in two appearances, but believes some of the world's most reocgnised players have used drugs.

"There was a player who had transfusions to improve their performance and is idolised today," Pereiro told Cadena Cope. "There was a player who used a growth hormone and is idolised today.

"If we give the same treatment to cyclists and to those in other sports, one is doped up to their eyeballs and the other is someone who works for their club.

"It's not about defending cycling and throwing s**t at other sports, but I wish you [the media] would give the same treatment to other sports when you recognize certain things.

"The day I'm paid €1 million, like many have been paid, I'll say yes or no [about whether I've doped or not]."

Romania international Adrian Mutu was suspended for nine months in 2010 after testing positive for sibutramine, an appetite suppressant.